What is a "troll"?

[StampMom]

I've seen this term used on here on on other forums, and I'm just wondering exactly what it means. I have a general sense, just from the context I've seen it used in, but I'd love to hear a more "official" definition. Can anyone oblige?

 

[FleurdeLise]

I think it's someone who may be a 'regular" on a board,and creates a new user-name to post nonsense that will get everyone 'riled up".



For instance- a poster's first post is on a "Hot Topic" like refillable mugs,pool hopping, or cooking in the room to save $.

 

[Steve H.]

From http://www.onlinesoldier.com/Basics/generalinternetterminology.htm

Troll - term for a message board or chat room poster that posts commercial information or contentless posts that just wastes everyone's time.

Or, from http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/T/troll.html

1) To deliberately post derogatory or inflammatory comments to a community forum, chat room, newsgroup and/or a blog in order to bait other users into responding.

In other words, it can be someone who posts something for a hidden purpose (e.g. to pick a fight, start conflict, etc.)

 

[WillyJ]

Someone who's whole existence is based on their ability to irritate people. . . like Carrot Top or Pauley Shore for example. .

 

[DawnCt]

A troll is an ugly little guy that lives under the bridge and when the Billy Goats Gruff crosses the bridge, says, "who is crossing my bridge?"

 

[Tess]

In the Great Lakes State of Michigan--it means any person who lives "Under the Bridge"--South of Mackinac Bridge for those geographically challenged folks.

 

[scarlett873]

 

[Grog]

In other words, it can be someone who posts something for a hidden purpose (e.g. to pick a fight, start conflict, etc.)

Yes, and it doesn't have to be a new or unknown user either. There are a few posters on the DIS who do just that. Some seem to like to post things that they know are going to "stir the pot" then they grab the popcorn and sit back. Just because someone is a regular poster doen't mean they can't be a Troll.

 

[LuvN~Travel]

Just remember they are like Yogi in the park, DON'T FEED THEM!
Kim

 

[JohnTBap]

Originally posted by LuvN~Travel
Just remember they are like Yogi in the park, DON'T FEED THEM!
Kim

I think I need glasses. I thought that said YODA in the park!!! I was thinking - what on EARTH is Yoda doing in the park???

 

[helenk]

Grog
I like your quote at the bottom of your text. Before each of my daughter's lacrosse games a player choses a quote and types it up on strips of paper for each player and she chose that quote.
It made a nice speech to get the girls in a winning mood!

 

[Girls Scout Leader]

OH, TESS !!!!

That's what I was going to say!!!!!!!!

 

[Grog]

Glad it helped them win